Bulk feeder and component assembly machine

Abstract

The bulk feeder comprises: a feeder body; a track component arranged to vibrate relative to the feeder body, forming a conveying path for conveying multiple components and a supply area communicating with the conveying path and opening upward to pick up multiple components; a vibration device that applies vibration to the track component to convey multiple components along the conveying path; a gate opener disposed on the upper part of the track component and capable of blocking the opening of the supply area; and a drive device that opens and closes the gate opener by causing the gate opener to move away from the track component when the gate opener is transferred from a closed state to an open state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to bulk feeders and component assembly machines. Background Technology

[0002] A bulk feeder is equipped on a component mounting machine that mounts components onto a substrate for supplying components in a bulk state. The bulk feeder conveys multiple components discharged from a component cassette and supplies components to a supply area that opens upwards in a manner that allows a suction nozzle to pick up the components. Patent Document 1 discloses a structure that conveys multiple components by applying vibration to a conveying path.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2011-114084 Summary of the Invention

[0005] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0006] In such bulk feeders, it is necessary to prevent components from flying out of the feed area during conveying and to prevent foreign matter from entering the feed area. Therefore, it is conceivable to install an openable / closable switch above the feed area that blocks the opening of the feed area when closed. However, when conveying vibrating components, if the switch affects the vibration characteristics, the conveying efficiency of the components may be reduced.

[0007] The purpose of this specification is to provide a bulk feeder and component mounting machine that can prevent components from flying out of the feeding area and can properly perform the conveying action of components using vibration.

[0008] Technical solutions for solving the problem

[0009] This specification discloses a bulk feeder comprising: a feeder body; a track component arranged to vibrate relative to the feeder body, forming a conveying path for conveying multiple components and a supply area communicating with the conveying path and opening upward to pick up multiple components; a vibration device that applies vibration to the track component to convey multiple components along the conveying path; an opening / closing device disposed on the upper part of the track component and capable of blocking the opening of the supply area; and a drive device that opens and closes the opening / closing device in such a way that the opening / closing device moves away from the track component when the opening / closing device changes from a closed state to an open state.

[0010] Invention Effects

[0011] With this structure, the bulk feeder can block the opening of the supply area by closing the switch, thus preventing components from flying out during conveying and preventing foreign matter from entering the supply area. Furthermore, since the switch moves away from the track component forming the supply area when changing from the closed to the open state, it prevents the switch from affecting the vibration characteristics of the track component. Therefore, by releasing the switch from the closed state, the bulk feeder can appropriately convey components that vibrate. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Figure 1 It is a schematic top view of a component assembly machine equipped with a bulk feeder.

[0013] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional view showing the appearance of the bulk feeder.

[0014] Figure 3 This is a schematic side view showing the main parts of the bulk feeder.

[0015] Figure 4 From Figure 2 Top view when viewed from direction IV.

[0016] Figure 5 This is a side view showing the closed state of the opener / closer.

[0017] Figure 6 This is a side view showing the open state of the open / closed mechanism.

[0018] Figure 7 It is an enlarged side view showing the intermediate state of the opener / closer.

[0019] Figure 8 It is a table that shows the relationship between the various stages of installation and processing and the states of switches, etc. Detailed Implementation

[0020] 1. Structure of component mounting machine 10

[0021] The component mounting machine 10, for example, together with various substrate mounting machines including other component mounting machines 10, constitutes a production line for producing substrate products. The substrate mounting machines constituting the above-described production line may include printers, inspection devices, reflow ovens, etc.

[0022] 1-1. Substrate conveying device

[0023] like Figure 1 As shown, the component mounting machine 10 includes a substrate transport device 11. The substrate transport device 11 transports substrates 91 sequentially in the transport direction and positions the substrates 91 at predetermined positions within the machine.

[0024] 1-2. Component supply device 12

[0025] The component mounting machine 10 includes a component supply device 12. The component supply device 12 supplies components to be mounted on the substrate 91. The component supply device 12 is equipped with feeders 122 in a plurality of slots 121. The feeders 122 may be, for example, belt feeders, which feed a carrier belt containing multiple components to supply components in a pick-up manner. Alternatively, the feeders 122 may be bulk feeders 30 that supply components in a pick-up manner in a bulk state (each in an irregularly oriented, scattered state). Details regarding the bulk feeder 30 will be described later.

[0026] 1-3. Component transfer device 13

[0027] The component mounting machine 10 includes a component transfer device 13. The component transfer device 13 transfers components supplied by the component supply device 12 to predetermined mounting positions on the substrate 91. The component transfer device 13 includes a head drive device 131, a moving stage 132, a mounting head 133, and a suction nozzle 134. The head drive device 131 moves the moving stage 132 horizontally (in the X and Y directions) via a linear motion mechanism. The mounting head 133 is detachably fixed to the moving stage 132 by a clamping member (not shown) and is arranged within the machine in a manner that allows it to move horizontally.

[0028] Mounting head 133 supports multiple suction nozzles 134 in a rotatable and height-adjustable manner. Suction nozzles 134 are used to pick up and hold components 92 (see reference) supplied by feeder 122. Figure 3 The nozzle 134 uses supplied negative pressure air to adsorb components supplied by the feeder 122. As a holding component mounted on the mounting head 133, a chuck or similar device that holds the component by a gripping element can be used.

[0029] 1-4. Component camera 14, substrate camera 15

[0030] The component mounting machine 10 includes a component camera 14 and a substrate camera 15. The component camera 14 and substrate camera 15 are digital imaging devices with imaging elements such as CMOS. The component camera 14 and substrate camera 15 capture images based on control signals and transmit the image data acquired through this capture. The component camera 14 is configured to capture images of components held in the suction nozzle 134 from below. The substrate camera 15 is mounted on the moving stage 132 in a manner that allows it to move horizontally integrally with the mounting head 133. The substrate camera 15 is configured to capture images of the substrate 91 from above.

[0031] In addition to photographing the surface of the substrate 91, the substrate camera 15 can also photograph various devices as long as they are within the movable range of the moving stage 132. For example, in this embodiment, such as Figure 4 As shown, the substrate camera 15 can capture the supply area As of the supply element 92 of the bulk feeder 30 and the reference mark 356 provided on the upper part of the bulk feeder 30 within the camera's field of view for imaging. In this way, the substrate camera 15 can be used for imaging different subjects in order to obtain image data used in various image processing.

[0032] 1-5. Control device 20

[0033] like Figure 1 As shown, the component mounting machine 10 includes a control device 20. The control device 20 mainly consists of a CPU, various memories, control circuits, and storage devices. The control device 20 stores various data, such as control programs for controlling the mounting process. The control program indicates the mounting position, mounting angle, and mounting sequence of the components mounted on the substrate 91 during the mounting process.

[0034] The control device 20 performs image processing to identify the holding state of the components held by multiple holding members (nozzles 134). Specifically, the control device 20 performs image processing on image data acquired by the component camera 14 to identify the position and angle of each component relative to the reference position of the mounting head 133. In addition to the component camera 14, the control device 20 can also perform image processing on image data acquired from the side, below, or above by a head camera unit integrated with the mounting head 133.

[0035] The control device 20 performs the installation process by controlling the component installation action performed by the mounting head 133 based on a control program. Here, the installation process includes repeating the PP cycle (pick-up and place cycle) which includes pick-up and installation actions multiple times. The "pick-up action" mentioned above refers to the action of picking up the component supplied by the component supply device 12 through the nozzle 134.

[0036] In this embodiment, when the control device 20 performs the aforementioned picking operation, it controls the operation of the component supply device 12, which includes the bulk feeder 30. The control targeting the operation of the bulk feeder 30 includes, for example, the control of the supply operation of the component 92 performed by the bulk feeder 30 and the control of the opening and closing operation of the opener 51, which will be described later.

[0037] The control device 20 includes a status recognition unit 22. The status recognition unit 22 identifies the supply status of multiple components 92 in the supply area As of the bulk feeder 30 based on image data acquired by a camera (in this embodiment, a substrate camera 15). The supply status recognition process includes identifying whether a pickable component 92 exists in the supply area As, and, if so, identifying the position and angle of that component 92. Furthermore, based on the result of the supply status recognition process, the control device 20 controls the operation of the mounting head 133 during the picking action.

[0038] Furthermore, the aforementioned "installation action" refers to the action of installing the picked-up component onto a predetermined installation position on the substrate 91 at a predetermined installation angle. During the installation process, the control device 20 controls the movement of the mounting head 133 based on information output from various sensors, image processing results, control programs, etc. This controls the position and angle of the multiple suction nozzles 134 supported on the mounting head 133.

[0039] 2. Structure of the bulk feeder 30

[0040] The bulk feeder 30 is equipped on the component mounting machine 10 and functions as part of the component supply device 12. The bulk feeder 30 supplies components 92 that are contained in a bulk state, not arranged like a carrier belt. Therefore, unlike a belt feeder, the bulk feeder 30 does not use a carrier belt, thus offering advantages in terms of eliminating the need for carrier belt filling and recycling of used belts.

[0041] Bulk feeder 30, for example, is of the type that supplies components 92 to a planar supply area As in an irregular posture. However, if the bulk feeder 30 is in a horizontal posture in the supply area As such that the components 92 are close together or stacked (overlapping in the vertical direction), or the width direction of the components 92 is vertical, then it cannot be used as a pick-up object. Therefore, in order to increase the proportion of pickable components 92, the bulk feeder 30 is of the type that supplies components 92 in a neatly arranged state in the supply area As. In this embodiment, a bulk feeder 30 of the type that neatly arranges the components 92 will be described as an example.

[0042] 2-1. Feeder body 31

[0043] like Figure 2As shown, the bulk feeder 30 has a flat, box-shaped feeder body 31. A connector 311 and two pins 312 are provided at the front of the feeder body 31. When the feeder body 31 is installed in the slot 121 of the component supply device 12, it is powered via the connector 311 and is able to communicate with the control device 20. The two pins 312 are inserted into guide holes provided in the slot 121 for positioning the feeder body 31 when it is installed in the slot 121.

[0044] 2-2. Component box 32 and housing component 33

[0045] A component box 32, which holds multiple components 92 in a bulk state, is detachably mounted on the feeder body 31 via a receiving member 33. The component box 32 is an external device of the bulk feeder 30. A suitable type of component box 32 is selected from various types for installation on the feeder body 31. A discharge port 321 for discharging components 92 to the outside is formed at the front of the component box 32.

[0046] The receiving member 33 is vibratoryly disposed relative to the feeder body 31, supporting the mounted component cassette 32. The receiving member 33 forms a receiving area Ar for receiving components 92 discharged from the component cassette 32. In this embodiment, the receiving member 33 has an inclined portion 331 in the receiving area Ar that is inclined forward relative to the horizontal plane. This inclined portion 331 is located below the discharge port 321 of the component cassette 32 and is planar. The receiving member 33 forms a flow path for the components 92 extending upward toward the receiving area Ar, and this flow path forms an upwardly opening discharge portion 332.

[0047] 2-3. Bracket 34, Track component 35, Locking unit 36

[0048] The bulk feeder 30 includes a bracket 34 and a track component 35. The bracket 34 is configured to vibrate relative to the feeder body 31. The bracket 34 is formed as a block extending along the front-rear direction of the feeder body 31, and the track component 35 is mounted on its upper surface. The bracket 34 is supported by a support component 41 of the vibration device 40, which will be described later. The track component 35 has a conveying path R for conveying a plurality of components 92 and a supply area As that communicates with the conveying path R and opens upward to pick up the plurality of components 92.

[0049] The bulk feeder 30 includes a locking unit 36. The locking unit 36 ​​locks the track component 35 when it is mounted on the bracket 34. When locked by the locking unit 36, the track component 35 vibrates integrally with the bracket 34 relative to the feeder body 31. The track component 35 can be detached from the bracket 34 by unlocking the locking unit 36.

[0050] 2-4. Detailed structure of track component 35, cover 37, connecting component 38

[0051] The track component 35 runs along the front-rear direction of the feeder body 31. Figure 4 It is formed by extending in the left-right direction. In the width direction of the track component 35 ( Figure 4 The two edges of the conveyor (in the vertical direction) have a pair of upwardly projecting sidewalls 351. The pair of sidewalls 351, together with the front end portion 352 of the track component 35, surround the periphery of the conveying path R to prevent leakage of the component 92 conveyed on the conveying path R. On the upper surface of the front end portion 352, a pair of circular reference marks 356 are attached to the left and right sides to indicate the reference position of the supply area As.

[0052] In this embodiment, a aligning member 353 is replaceably mounted on the track member 35. The aligning member 353 has multiple cavities 354 that respectively accommodate multiple elements 92. Specifically, the multiple cavities 354 are arranged in a matrix in the supply region As. For example, the aligning member 353 has a total of 80 cavities 354, of which 8 are regularly arranged in the conveying direction and 10 are regularly arranged in the width direction of the conveying path R. The multiple cavities 354 open upwards and accommodate the elements 92 in an orientation with the thickness direction of the elements 92 as the vertical direction.

[0053] The opening of cavity 354 is set to be slightly larger than the external shape of element 92 when viewed from above. The depth of cavity 354 is set according to the type (shape, mass, etc.) of element 92. The track component 35 is equipped with one of various types of track components 35 selected according to the type of element 92, the necessary number of cavities 354, and functionality.

[0054] Here, the "supply area As" of the track component 35 refers to the area where the component 92 is supplied in a bulk state, and is the area where the component 92 can be picked up by the suction nozzle 134 supported on the mounting head 133. In addition, the "transport path R" of the track component 35 refers to the channel through which the component 92 flowing from the receiving area Ar to the track component 35 is transported to the supply area As.

[0055] The bulk feeder 30 includes a cover 37. The cover 37 is fixed to the track component 35 and covers the top of the conveying path R. Multiple vents 371 are formed on the upper surface of the cover 37. Mesh openings smaller than the external dimensions of the element 92 are provided on the vents 371. With this structure, the cover 37 is configured to prevent the element 92 from flying out of the conveying path R and to allow air to be discharged to the outside from the vents 371.

[0056] The track component 35 forms a flow path for the downwardly extending element 92 at its rear, and has an inlet portion 355 that opens downwardly into the flow path. The inlet portion 355 faces the outlet portion 332 of the receiving component 33 in the vertical direction. The bulk feeder 30 includes a tubular connecting component 38. The connecting component 38 connects the outlet portion 332 of the receiving component 33 and the inlet portion 355 of the track component 35. In this embodiment, the connecting component 38 is a closely spaced helical spring and is flexible overall.

[0057] With the above-described structure, the connecting member 38 is connected in a manner that allows multiple elements 92 to flow between the receiving area Ar and the conveying path R. Furthermore, the connecting member 38 absorbs vibration by deforming in response to vibrations of the receiving member 33 relative to the feeder body 31 and the track member 35. The connecting member 38 reduces or blocks vibrations transmitted between the independently vibrating receiving member 33 and track member 35.

[0058] 2-5. Air supply device 39

[0059] The bulk feeder 30 includes an air supply device 39. The air supply device 39 supplies positive pressure air from below the receiving area Ar, allowing multiple components 92 to flow from the receiving member 33 to the track member 35 via the connecting member 38. In this embodiment, the air supply device 39 supplies or cuts off the positive pressure air supplied from the outside from below the receiving area Ar according to the instructions of the feeder control device 70 described later.

[0060] When the air supply device 39 supplies positive pressure air, the multiple components 92 that are retained in the receiving area Ar are blown upward by the positive pressure air. The positive pressure air and the multiple components 92 flow in the order of the delivery part 332 of the receiving member 33, the connecting member 38 and the inlet part 355, and reach the transport path R of the track member 35. Here, the positive pressure air is exhausted to the outside from the exhaust port 371 of the cover 37. In addition, the multiple components 92 fall onto the transport path R of the track member 35 due to their own weight.

[0061] 2-6. Vibration device 40

[0062] The bulk feeder 30 includes a vibration device 40 disposed on the feeder body 31. The vibration device 40 applies vibration to the track component 35 to cause multiple components 92 to be conveyed along the conveying path R. Specifically, the vibration device 40 includes multiple support components 41, multiple piezoelectric elements 42, a vibration sensor 43, and a power supply device 44. The multiple support components 41 directly or indirectly connect the feeder body 31 to the bracket 34 and support the bracket 34.

[0063] In this embodiment, the plurality of support members 41 have a forward support member 41A for front-side conveying of the element 92 and a backward support member 41B for rear-side conveying. The forward support member 41A and the backward support member 41B each have different inclination directions relative to the vertical direction. The plurality of piezoelectric elements 42 are oscillators that vibrate at a frequency corresponding to the power supplied from the power supply device 44. The plurality of piezoelectric elements 42 are attached to each of the plurality of support members 41.

[0064] When at least a portion of the piezoelectric elements 42 vibrates, vibration is applied to the track component 35 via the bracket 34. Furthermore, the amplitude of the track component 35 varies depending on the voltage applied to the piezoelectric elements 42. The vibration sensor 43 detects the actual frequency or amplitude of the vibration of the track component 35 when the piezoelectric elements 42 are powered and vibrate. In this embodiment, the vibration sensor 43 is disposed on a plurality of support members 41 that support the bracket 34, which vibrates integrally with the track component 35.

[0065] Here, when the vibration device 40 applies vibration to the track component 35, the track component 35 undergoes elliptical motion in a side view. As a result, multiple elements 92 located on the transport path R are subjected to an external force in front and above, or an external force in rear and above, depending on the rotational direction of the elliptical motion of the track component 35. As a result, the multiple elements 92 are transported to the front of the track component 35 or to the rear.

[0066] Based on the instructions of the feeder control device 70 (described later), the power supply device 44 adjusts the frequency and applied voltage of the power supplied to the piezoelectric element 42. This adjusts the frequency and amplitude of the vibration applied to the track component 35, determining the rotational direction of the elliptical motion of the track component 35. When the frequency, amplitude, and rotational direction of the elliptical motion caused by the vibration of the track component 35 change, the conveying speed, dispersion of the conveyed element 92, and conveying direction also change.

[0067] Therefore, in order to improve conveying efficiency, the vibration device 40 is pre-set with a power supply (frequency, applied voltage) corresponding to the vibration characteristics (including the inherent vibration frequency) with individual differences. For example, the bulk feeder 30 performs a correction process when the track component 35 for the predetermined feeding action is installed, that is, when the track component 35 is locked relative to the bracket 34 by the locking unit 36.

[0068] The correction process first determines at least one of the frequency and amplitude of the actual vibration of the track component 35 based on the detection value of the vibration sensor 43. Then, based on the vibration-related measurement results, the correction process adjusts the power supply from the power supply device 44 to the piezoelectric element 42. By repeatedly performing this process, the correction process obtains the power supplied to the piezoelectric element 42 when the bracket 34 and the track component 35 vibrate together at their natural vibration frequency.

[0069] 3. Opening / closing unit 50

[0070] The bulk feeder 30, constructed with the above-described structure, moves a plurality of components 92 discharged from the component box 32 from the receiving area Ar to the supply area As via the conveying path R. At this time, as described above, a cover 37 is provided above the conveying path R to prevent the components 92 from flying out. On the other hand, in the supply area As, it is preferable that the components 92 can be picked up by the suction nozzle 134, and the opening of the supply area As is blocked, for example, when conveying the components 92.

[0071] Therefore, the bulk feeder 30 includes an opening / closing unit 50 capable of opening and closing the opening of the supply area As. The opening / closing unit 50 includes an opening / closing device 51, which is disposed on the upper part of the track member 35 and is capable of blocking the opening of the supply area As. Thus, by opening and closing the opening / closing device 51, it is possible to prevent the component 92 from flying out or foreign matter from entering the supply area As.

[0072] However, the components 92 supplied by the bulk feeder 30 are very small depending on their type. Therefore, when the switch 51 is in the closed state, it is preferable to ensure a tight seal between the switch 51 and the track component 35 without creating a gap. However, if the bulk feeder 30, as in this embodiment, uses vibration in the conveying of the components 92, then if the switch 51 contacts the track component 35, it may become a resistance to the vibration of the track component 35 or affect the vibration characteristics of the track component 35.

[0073] Therefore, the bulk feeder 30 of this embodiment adopts a structure that can prevent the component 92 from flying out of the supply area As and can appropriately perform the conveying operation of the component 92 that experiences vibration during use. Specifically, as Figure 5 As shown, the opening / closing unit 50 of the bulk feeder 30 includes an opening / closing device 51 and a drive device 52. Furthermore, the opening / closing unit 50 preferably also includes a base 53 and an opening / closing sensor 54.

[0074] 3-1. Opening and closing device 51

[0075] As described above, the opener / closer 51 is configured to block the opening of the supply area As. Here, the opener / closer 51 switches between an open state and a closed state through an opening and closing action. The closed state of the opener / closer 51 refers to the state where the opener / closer 51 is in contact with the track member 35 and the opening of the supply area As is completely blocked. At this time, as... Figure 4 As shown by the dotted lines, the opening / closing device 51 is located behind the feeder body 31, closer to the pair of reference marks 356 on the track component 35. This allows for visual confirmation and photographing of the pair of reference marks 356 when viewed from above. Additionally, Figure 4 The opener / closer 51, indicated by a double-dotted line, is in the closed state. Figures 6-7 (The same applies in the middle).

[0076] Furthermore, the so-called open state of the opening / closing device 51 refers to the state in which the opening of the supply area As is not blocked and the main area of ​​the supply area As (the area in this embodiment where multiple cavities 354 are provided) is exposed. At this time, the suction nozzle 134 can perform a pick-up action on any cavity 354 by the element 92.

[0077] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the opening and closing action of the opener 51 includes an intermediate state, which is a state between the closed state and the open state. This intermediate state is a state in which the opener 51 moves away from the track component 35 by a distance at least greater than the amplitude of the track component 35 vibrating by the vibration device 40, and the limiting element 92 flies out from the opening of the supply area As.

[0078] The opening / closing device 51 is formed as a whole into a U-shape that opens downwards when viewed in the front-rear direction. In this embodiment, as... Figure 5 As shown, the opener / closer 51 has an upper wall portion 511 and a pair of side wall portions 512. In the closed state, the upper wall portion 511 contacts the track member 35 to block the opening of the supply region As, and in the intermediate state, it leaves the track member 35. The pair of side wall portions 512 are located on the outer side of the track member 35 in the left-right direction, extending downward from both ends of the upper wall portion 511, and in the intermediate state, together with the upper wall portion 511, restrict the element 92 from flying out of the opening of the supply region As.

[0079] 3-2. Drive unit 52

[0080] The drive device 52 opens and closes the opener 51, causing it to disengage from the track member 35 when transitioning from a closed to an open state. Specifically, the drive device 52 performs the opening and closing action of the opener 51 using the following structure. In this embodiment, the drive device 52 includes a guide rail 521 and a slider 522. Figure 5 As shown, the guide rail 521 extends in the front-back direction and the up-down direction of the feeder body 31.

[0081] In this embodiment, a pair of guide rails 521 are provided on the left and right sides of the feeder body 31. The guide rails 521 are formed in a straight line that slopes gently upwards from the rear towards the front. A slider 522 supports the opener / closer 51. The slider 522 is fastened to a pair of sidewall portions 512 of the opener / closer 51 by bolts. The slider 522 is configured to be movable along the guide rails 521.

[0082] When the slider 522 moves along the guide rail 521 in the front-to-back direction, the opener / closer 51 moves integrally with the slider 522 in the front-to-back direction. At this time, the opener / closer 51 moves in the vertical direction according to the amount of movement in the front-to-back direction due to the inclination of the guide rail 521. The drive device 52, as the mechanism for moving the slider 522, can be adopted in various ways. In this embodiment, as in this embodiment, the drive device 52 includes: a pin 523, an arm 524, a motor 525, and a spring 526.

[0083] Pin 523 is located in the left-right direction of the feeder body 31. Figure 5 The pin 523 extends in the front-to-back direction and is engaged with the slider 522 in the front-to-back direction. In this embodiment, the pin 523 is engaged with the rear end of the slider 522. The arm 524 supports the pin 523 and is configured to be rotatable relative to the feeder body 31 about a horizontal axis extending in the left-to-right direction. Thus, when the arm 524 rotates, the pin 523 moves on an arcuate track centered on the axis of rotation of the arm 524.

[0084] Motor 525 rotates arm 524. Motor 525 is powered by feeder control device 70, described later. Motor 525 is configured to rotate arm 524 about a predetermined angle according to the power supply. Spring 526 is an elastic member connecting feeder body 31 and slider 522. In this embodiment, spring 526 is a helical tension spring.

[0085] Spring 526 applies elastic force in a manner that always exerts a rearward force on slider 522. At this time, since slider 522 is configured to move along inclined guide rail 521, spring 526 exerts a force on the lower end of slider 522 towards guide rail 521. That is, according to the above structure, when power to motor 525 is cut off, slider 522 is forced rearward by spring 526, and the opener / closer 51 is in the closed state.

[0086] The upper wall portion 511 of the opener 51 contacts the upper edge of the track component 35, while the slider 522 stops at the rear end position (the lower end position, which is the initial position of the slider 522). When power is supplied to the motor 525, as... Figure 6As shown, arm 524 rotates, and slider 522 moves forward along guide rail 521 against the force of spring 526. Consequently, the opener / closer 51, supported by slider 522, moves forward and becomes open. At this time, the opener / closer 51 moves upward by the amount corresponding to the tilt of guide rail 521.

[0087] Additionally, the drive unit 52 supplies predetermined power to the motor 525, causing the arm 524 to rotate a certain angle from the initial angle, thereby enabling the opener / closer 51 to be in an intermediate state. At this time, as... Figure 7 As shown, the opener / closer 51 moves slightly forward and upward by an amount L1. This upward amount L1 is set to be larger than the amplitude of the vibration of the track component 35. Therefore, the opener / closer 51 maintains a non-contact state relative to the vibrating track component 35 in the intermediate state. Furthermore, Figure 7 The increase in the amount of movement L1 of the opener 51 as it transitions from the closed state to the intermediate state is exaggeratedly shown.

[0088] Furthermore, the aforementioned rise L1 is preferably set such that the gap formed between the track component 35 and the opener / closer 51 is smaller than the minimum dimension of the element 92's outline (e.g., the thickness of the element 92). Thus, the opener / closer 51 disengages from the track component 35 in the intermediate state, and reliably prevents the element 92 from flying out.

[0089] 3-3. Base 53, Opening / Closing Sensor 54

[0090] The base 53 is a component that moves integrally with the slider 522. For example... Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the base 53 is bolted to the sliding member 522 on the left and right sides (right side in this embodiment) of the feeder body 31. The opening / closing sensor 54 is a sensor that detects the position of the base 53 when the opening / closing device 51 is moved to the open state. In this embodiment, the opening / closing sensor 54 is set to detect the base 53 when the opening / closing device 51 is fully moved to the open state.

[0091] In addition to the aforementioned mechanism, the opening / closing sensor 54 can also detect the position of the base 53 when the opening / closing device 51 is in the intermediate state. At this time, the opening / closing sensor 54 can also be positioned at multiple locations on the feeder body 31 according to the shape of the base 53, thereby detecting the positions of the base 53 corresponding to the intermediate state and the open state of the opening / closing device 51 respectively. Alternatively, a single opening / closing sensor 54 can detect the positions of the base 53 corresponding to both the intermediate state and the open state of the opening / closing device 51.

[0092] 4. Feeder control device 70

[0093] The bulk feeder 30 includes a feeder control device 70. The feeder control device 70 mainly consists of a CPU, various memories, and control circuits. When the bulk feeder 30 is installed in slot 121, the feeder control device 70 is powered via connector 311 and is also in a state where it can communicate with the control device 20 of the component mounting machine 10.

[0094] like Figure 2 As shown, the feeder control device 70 has a storage unit 71. The storage unit 71 is composed of flash memory or the like. Various data, such as programs and transport parameters used in the control of the component supply process, are stored in the storage unit 71. The aforementioned "transport parameters" are parameters used to control the operation of the vibration device 40 to apply appropriate vibration to the track component 35 when the component 92 is transported in the component supply process, and are preset in relation to each type of component 92.

[0095] The feeder control device 70 includes a conveying control unit 72. The conveying control unit 72 controls the operation of the vibration device 40 to perform the conveying action of the element 92. Specifically, when performing the conveying action, the conveying control unit 72 sends a command to the power supply device 44 of the vibration device 40. As a result, a predetermined amount of electricity is supplied to the piezoelectric element 42 via the power supply device 44, thereby applying vibration to the track component 35 via the bracket 34. Furthermore, the element 92 on the conveying path R is conveyed by an external force to move along the conveying direction.

[0096] The feeder control device 70 includes a drive control unit 75 for the opening / closing unit 50. The drive control unit 75 controls the movement of the slider 522 based on the detection results of the opening / closing sensor 54. Together with the conveying control unit 72, the drive control unit 75 appropriately drives the opening / closing unit 50 according to the instructions of the control device 20 of the component mounting machine 10, thereby switching the opening / closing unit 51 between the closed state, intermediate state, and open state.

[0097] 5. Installation process and feeder control of component mounting machine 10

[0098] like Figure 8 As shown, the component mounting machine 10 performs feeder control corresponding to the supply state of the bulk feeder 30 during each stage of the mounting process. Here, after the bulk feeder 30 is installed in the slot 121, the control device 20 performs a calibration process to identify the position of the supply area As within the machine. Specifically, the control device 20 first instructs the feeder control device 70 to close the switch 51. Consequently, the drive control unit 75 controls the switch 51 to close by cutting off the power supply to the drive device 52. This allows the multiple reference marks 356 to be photographed from above.

[0099] The control device 20 moves the substrate camera 15 above the plurality of reference marks 356 of the bulk feeder 30 and acquires image data by capturing images with the substrate camera 15. Furthermore, the control device 20 identifies the position of the bulk feeder 30 inside the machine, i.e., the position of the supply area As, based on the position of the plurality of reference marks 356 included in the image data through image processing and the position of the substrate camera 15 at the time of capture.

[0100] Next, before picking up component 92 from bulk feeder 30 during the installation process, control device 20 instructs bulk feeder 30 to feed component 92. As a result, bulk feeder 30 discharges component 92 from component box 32 as needed and allows component 92 to flow to track component 35. Then, bulk feeder 30 maintains opening / closing device 51 in an intermediate state via drive control unit 75 to feed component 92. As a result, component 92 is accommodated in multiple cavities 354, and excess component 92 is retracted from supply area As towards conveying path R.

[0101] During the supply status identification process, the control device 20 instructs the bulk feeder 30 to open the switch 51. The control device 20 moves the substrate camera 15 above the supply area As, thereby acquiring image data by capturing images with the substrate camera 15. Furthermore, the status identification unit 22 of the control device 20 identifies the position and angle of the pickable element 92 as the supply status through image processing based on the image data.

[0102] Before executing the pick-up action in the PP cycle, the control device 20 instructs the bulk feeder 30 to open the switch 51. Additionally, after the pick-up action ends and during the installation action in the PP cycle, the control device 20 instructs the bulk feeder 30 to close the switch 51. Furthermore, if the number of remaining components 92 that can be picked up in the supply area As is less than the predetermined number of components 92 to be picked up in the next PP cycle, the control device 20 instructs the bulk feeder 30 to feed the components 92 during the installation action.

[0103] In other words, when the bulk feeder 30 is instructed to feed element 92, the switch 51 is in an intermediate state to perform the aforementioned feeding operation. Conversely, when the bulk feeder 30 is not instructed to feed element 92, the switch 51 is in a closed state during the installation operation. In both states, the switch 51 blocks the supply area As to prevent element 92 from flying out or foreign matter from entering the supply area As.

[0104] When the installation operation ends, the control device 20 moves to the next PP cycle and picks up the component 92 from the bulk feeder 30 again. Therefore, the control device 20 instructs the bulk feeder 30 to open the switch 51. Furthermore, when the feeding of component 92 is instructed, the control device 20 performs the supply status identification process again. On the other hand, when the feeding of component 92 is not instructed, the control device 20 omits the supply status identification process and, based on the result of the previous identification process, performs a picking operation targeting the remaining pickable components 92.

[0105] As described above, the control device 20 opens the switch 51 during the period when the camera (in this embodiment, the substrate camera 15) captures images of the supply area As and during the period when the component transfer device 13 picks up the component 92 from the supply area As. Additionally, the control device 20 closes the switch 51 in a closed state (when no transport is required) or an intermediate state (when transport is required) during the period when the component transfer device 13 transfers the picked-up component 92 onto the substrate and during the period when the bulk feeder 30 transports multiple components 92.

[0106] 6. Effects of the structure produced by the implementation method

[0107] According to the structure illustrated in the above embodiment, the bulk feeder 30 can block the opening of the supply area As by closing the switch 51, thus preventing the component 92 from flying out during conveying and preventing foreign matter from entering the supply area As. Furthermore, since the switch 51, which changes from the closed state to the open state, moves away from the track member 35 where the supply area As is formed, it can prevent the switch 51 from affecting the vibration characteristics of the track member 35. Therefore, by releasing the closed state of the switch, the bulk feeder 30 can appropriately perform the conveying operation of the vibrating component 92.

[0108] 7. Variations of the implementation method

[0109] 7-1. Regarding track component 35

[0110] In one embodiment, the track component 35, configured as a bulk feeder 30, includes neatly arranged components 353 having a plurality of cavities 354. Alternatively, the neatly arranged components 353 may be omitted. That is, a concave portion or a planar portion uniformly aligned with the upper surface of the conveying path R may be formed in the supply area As of the track component 35 to distribute the elements 92 at a position lower than the upper surface of the conveying path R, thereby supplying the elements 92 in a bulk state. However, from the viewpoint of improving the efficiency of element supply processing and reducing the image processing load in the processing of identifying the supply state in the supply area As, the structure illustrated in this embodiment is preferred.

[0111] 7-2. About the camera

[0112] In this embodiment, the camera configured to photograph the supply area As of the bulk feeder 30 is a substrate camera 15. Conversely, the component mounting machine 10 may also include a camera positioned above the bulk feeder 30, capable of photographing the supply area As. This camera can be dedicated solely to photographing the supply area As, or it can be used for other purposes. With this configuration, the camera is fixed, improving the accuracy of calibration processing and supply status identification. However, from the viewpoint of reducing equipment costs, the embodiment shown is preferred.

[0113] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0114] 10: Component mounting machine, 12: Component feeding device, 13: Component transfer device, 15: Substrate camera, 20: Control device, 22: Status recognition unit, 30: Bulk feeder, 31: Feeder body, 32: Component box, 35: Track component, 40: Vibration device, 50: Opening / closing unit, 51: Opening / closing device, 511: Upper wall, 512: Side wall, 52: Drive device, 521: Guide rail, 522: Sliding component, 523: Pin, 524: Arm, 525: Motor, 526: Spring (elastic component), 53: Base, 54: Opening / closing sensor, 70: Feeder control device, 75: Drive control unit, 91: Substrate, 92: Component, As: Supply area, R: Conveying path.

Claims

1. A bulk feeder comprising: a feeder body; a track member provided so as to be able to vibrate with respect to the feeder body, formed with a conveyance path that conveys a plurality of components and a supply area that communicates with the conveyance path and opens upward to be able to pick up the plurality of components; a vibration applying device that applies vibration to the track member to convey the plurality of components along the conveyance path; a shutter provided at an upper portion of the track member, able to block the opening of the supply area; and a drive device that opens and closes the shutter in such a manner that the shutter contacts the track member to block the opening of the supply area when the shutter is in a closed state, and the shutter moves away from the track member when the shutter moves from the closed state to an open state.

2. The bulk feeder according to claim 1, wherein the drive device has: a guide rail that extends in a front-rear direction and an up-down direction of the feeder body; and a slide that supports the shutter and is able to move along the guide rail.

3. The bulk feeder according to claim 2, wherein the drive device further has: a pin that extends in a left-right direction of the feeder body and is caught in the slide in the front-rear direction; an arm that supports the pin, provided so as to be able to rotate with respect to the feeder body about a horizontal axis that extends in the left-right direction; a motor that rotates the arm; and an elastic member that links the feeder body and the slide, applies a force to the slide toward a lower end side of the guide rail.

4. The bulk feeder according to claim 2, further comprising: a base that moves integrally with the slide; a sensor that detects a position of the base when the shutter moves to the open state; and a drive control portion that controls movement of the slide based on a detection result of the sensor.

5. The bulk feeder according to claim 3, further comprising: a base that moves integrally with the slide; a sensor that detects a position of the base when the shutter moves to the open state; and a drive control portion that controls movement of the slide based on a detection result of the sensor.

6. The bulk feeder according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein an intermediate state is included in an opening and closing operation of the shutter, the intermediate state is a state between the closed state and the open state, in the intermediate state, the shutter moves away from the track member by a distance that is at least greater than an amplitude of vibration of the track member by vibration applied by the vibration applying device, and the components are restricted from flying out of the opening of the supply area.

7. The bulk feeder according to claim 6, wherein the shutter has: an upper wall portion that contacts the track member and blocks the opening of the supply area in the closed state, and moves away from the track member in the intermediate state; and ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ A pair of side wall portions positioned on the outside in the left-right direction of the track member and extending downward from both end edges of the upper wall portion, and restricting the elements from flying out of the opening of the supply area together with the upper wall portion in the intermediate state.

8. The bulk feeder according to claim 6, wherein the shutter is set to the open state when the bulk feeder supplies a plurality of the elements, the shutter is set to the intermediate state when the vibration device vibrates the track member.

9. The bulk feeder according to claim 7, wherein the shutter is set to the open state when the bulk feeder supplies a plurality of the elements, the shutter is set to the intermediate state when the vibration device vibrates the track member.

10. A component mounting machine comprising: a component supply device equipped with the bulk feeder according to any one of claims 1 to 9; and a control device that controls a supply operation of the components by the bulk feeder and an opening and closing operation of the shutter.

11. The component mounting machine according to claim 10, wherein an intermediate state is included in the opening and closing operation of the shutter, the intermediate state is a state between the closed state and the open state, in which the shutter is away from the track member by a distance greater than a vibration amplitude of the track member by the vibration by the vibration device, and restricts the components from flying out of the opening of the supply area, the component mounting machine further comprises: a component transfer device that transfers the components supplied by the component supply device to a substrate; a camera that can capture the supply area; and a state recognition portion that recognizes a supply state of a plurality of the components in the supply area based on image data obtained by the capturing by the camera, the control device sets the shutter to the open state during a period in which the camera captures the supply area and a period in which the component transfer device picks up the components from the supply area, the control device sets the shutter to the closed state or the intermediate state during a period in which the component transfer device transfers the picked-up components to the substrate and a period in which the bulk feeder feeds a plurality of the components. ​

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